Snorkeling, Art, and the Road to Hana—Discover Maui with Local Insights
Unique Maui Activities
Aloha, we’re Dennis and Lara, a father-daughter duo running our vacation rental near Makena-Wailea. Whether we’re snorkeling right after the sun rises or catching the last light of sunset from our favorite spot, our love for this island runs deep.
We’ve curated these unique things to do in Maui not just for ourselves but for you, our guests, so that your stay at Makena Surf C-107 is filled with the same joy and wonder we feel every time we’re here. Ready to dive in? Let’s explore Maui together!
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Whale Watching in Maui
From January to March, majestic humpback whales visit Maui, birthing and nurturing their calves in the island’s gentle waters. Bull whales fight in their quest to show off, and curious teenage whales come close to eye the boats that are watching them back.
It’s the perfect time for the thrill of seeing a massive tail slap the water against the backdrop of aqua-blue water and the West Maui Mountains. This is an activity that is fantastic for your kid! You’ll see their eyes light up with curiousity and wonder.
Whale Watching from Your Oceanfront Lanai
Tips for Whale Watching Tours
Our first attempts on larger boat tours left us wanting more, which led us to Ultimate Whale Watching zodiac boats—fast, agile vessels that bring you right into the heart of the action.
- Choose the right day: Whale watching season runs from December to May, with peak watching time being from January to March.
- First Pick of Seats: You might arrive early for prime seating, but rest assured, these boats ensure everyone gets a great view.
- Hats: These zodiacs move quickly, so opt for a hat with a secure chin strap to avoid losing it to the wind.
- Full Battery: Keep your phone fully charged—whale sightings are unpredictable and you may be taking longer videos than normal to try to capture the breach. To conserve battery, use airplane mode and bring a backup charger.
- Soak in the Moment: So, we just said to keep your phone charged, but some of the best moments? They’re not for the camera. We’ve had groups of whales swim directly under the boat and have witnessed a mother whale teach her little one how to breach. Moments like these really take our breath away when we just put the phone down and fully immerse ourselves in the experience. Trust us, those memories will stay with you far longer than any photo ever could.
- Bring Cash: It’s handy for tipping the crew who have worked hard to give you an unforgettable experience.
- Wear Sunscreen: You will be exposed to the sun for a few hours, and the last thing you want to do is come home burned!
Explore Central Maui
Best Maui Snorkeling Spots for Family-Friendly Adventures
Maui’s clear waters are a snorkeler’s dream, and we’ve spent countless mornings discovering its underwater world. From the vibrant marine life at The Dumps to the serene encounters at Turtle Town, each spot offers something unique. Plus you get the added bonus that snorkeling is one of the best things to do in Maui that’s free!
Dennis and Lara Insider Tip: Early mornings- after 8am- are typically best, but we know it can be challenging to wake up early on vacation! The time difference from the US mainland makes rising early those first few mornings a whole lot easier.
Want to take your snorkeling skills to the next level? Check out our blog post, “5 Steps to Snorkeling Like a Pro!” and learn how to make the most out of your underwater adventures.
Super Fish Population at The Dumps
A short 12-minute drive from our vacation property brings you to Ahihi Kinau Natural Area Reserve, home to “The Dumps,” one of the best snorkeling spots in Maui.
Why It’s Special
This bay is alive with vibrant coral and teeming with fish, offering the chance to swim through schools of fish while scanning the bottom for octopus, starfish, and sea cucumbers. You might even glide alongside a Honu (Green Sea Turtle)—a truly unforgettable experience.
What to Bring
- Sturdy shoes are a must—the lava rocks can easily turn an ankle or shred flimsy flip-flops.
- A blanket to sit on while you gear up.
- A credit card to pay for parking.
- Cash for a post-snorkel treat. We love stopping at our favorite roadside fruit stands on the way back to pick up fresh pineapple, mango, and papaya. You’ve got to try the apple bananas—they’re a must!
Best Time to Visit
Early mornings around 8:00 a.m. are especially magical, with calm waters and the sun rising over Haleakala.
How to Get to the Dumps
Drive south to the end of Wailea Alanui Drive until you reach the gravel parking lot with yellow gates—then you’ve made it! It’s just a quick 1-2 minute walk down the path to the black rock beach.
The Famous Turtle Town
One of the perks of staying at our Makena Surf C-107 condo is that you’re just steps away from one of Maui’s most famous snorkeling spots—Turtle Town. Located right at Chang’s Beach, it’s known for the Honu that feeds in the area.
Why It’s Special
Missed a Honu at the Dumps? A stop at Turtle Town won’t disappoint—you’re almost guaranteed to get up close and personal with these gentle giants gliding through the water.
What to Bring
- Reef-safe sunscreen: Protect both yourself and the marine life.
- Underwater camera: You’ll want to capture the magic of swimming alongside these gentle giants.
- A sense of respect: Remember, these animals are endangered and deserve space and peace. Enjoy observing them from a respectful distance.
- Stay Hydrated: Snorkeling can be tiring, especially under the sun. Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout the day.
Best Time to Visit
For the best experience, we recommend heading out between early morning and lunchtime. During this time, the water is typically calm, offering excellent visibility. The early start means fewer crowds, giving you a more peaceful and private experience.
How to Get to Turtle Town
- Staying at our Condo: If you’re renting our condo, walk to the point right in front, swim a little, and you’ll be in their world. There’s no need for a car or a long hike—Turtle Town is right in your backyard.
- Not Staying at the Condo?:
- Parking: For those driving, you can still experience the magic of Turtle Town! Park at Po’olenalena Beach Park, which offers free parking. Space can be limited as there are only 8 spots.
- Path to Turtle Town: From Po’olenalena Beach, head to the southern end of the beach. You’ll spot a series of lava rocks—swim or snorkel around the reef from here to reach the secluded cove known as Chang’s Beach, also called Turtle Town.
Snorkel Honolua Bay
Honolua Bay, located in West Maui, is a bit of a drive from our Makena Surf Resort condo, but it is a great excursion to experience Maui. Part of a protected Marine Life Conservation District, this bay offers pristine snorkeling all day long. Park along the road and briefly hike through tropical greenery to reach the bay.
Why It’s Special
Thanks to its protected status, Honolua Bay’s coral is vibrant, and the waters are teeming with schools of fish. The shape of the cove protects it from the waves that often make snorkeling in the afternoon impossible, meaning you can snorkel all day long! If you’re lucky, you might even spot an eagle ray gliding by.
What to Bring
- Parking Awareness: Be cautious of steep drop-offs along the road. The sun can make these spots harder to see, so take your time choosing a safe spot.
- Reef-safe sunscreen or rash guard: Protect the coral using reef-safe sunscreen or by wearing a rash guard. Remember, the coral here is fragile and needs to be protected from harmful chemicals.
- Respect the Environment: Avoid touching marine life, and always take your belongings and trash with you to preserve the bay’s delicate ecosystem.
- Valuables Safety: Given the area’s popularity, break-ins can occur. Leave valuables at home, bring only what you can carry, and keep your car locked.
- Snacks and water: It’s a bit of a drive, so having refreshments on hand is always a good idea.
Best Time to Visit
Mornings are best before parking becomes scarce. While summer offers calm waters and excellent visibility, this bay can be snorkeled year-round.
Directions
From our condo, head west on Honoapiilani Highway (Hwy 30). Continue along the coastline past Lahaina, enjoying the scenic drive until you reach the Honolua Bay lookout. From there, it’s a short hike down to the bay, where you’ll find a tranquil spot to start your snorkeling adventure.
Dennis and Lara’s Insider Tip
Since you’ve already made the drive, add more adventures to your itinerary! Stop at the Gazebo Restaurant in Napili for their famous Portuguese fried rice. It’s the perfect way to refuel after a morning of snorkeling.
Molokini Crater
Molokini Crater, a crescent-shaped volcanic crater off Maui’s coast, is accessible only by boat. Tours typically depart from Maalaea Harbor or Kihei Boat Ramp, both just a short drive from our Makena Surf C-107 condo. Booking in advance for this snorkel experience is essential as tours can fill up quickly.
Why It’s Special
With visibility often exceeding 150 feet, Molokini offers some of the clearest snorkeling in the world. The crater is home to over 250 fish species and vibrant coral reefs, making it a must-visit for underwater enthusiasts.
What to Bring
- Dramamine or seasickness bands: The boat ride to Molokini can sometimes be a bit choppy, so be prepared if you’re prone to seasickness.
- Light jacket or towel: It can get breezy on the boat, especially in the early morning.
- Cash for parking and tips: Parking at the harbor can require a fee, and it’s always good to have cash for tipping your tour guides.
Best Time to Visit
Early morning is ideal for calmer waters and fewer crowds, enhancing the experience of exploring this marine sanctuary.
Dennis and Lara Insider Tip
For a more intimate experience, opt for a smaller boat tour. It allows for more personal space and a fun experience with your boat captain and fellow snorkelers!
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Road to Hana
After exploring Maui’s underwater wonders, continue your adventure on land with a scenic drive along the Road to Hana. This isn’t just a drive—it’s like diving deep into Maui’s raw beauty. It covers 64 miles of stunning scenery that guarantees unforgettable moments at every twist and turn.
But don’t be fooled by the mileage. This road is packed with tight switchbacks, one-lane bridges, and slow-moving traffic, turning what seems like a short trip into an all-day adventure. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a nature lover, or simply looking to explore at your own pace, the Road to Hana offers something for everyone.
Dennis and Lara’s Insider Tip
Don’t plan this trip on the same day as your flight home. The combination of hours on the road and a long flight afterward can lead to serious travel fatigue. Instead, set aside a whole day to immerse yourself in the experience.
Three Ways to Experience the Road to Hana
Explore Upcountry Maui
Upcountry Maui offers a refreshing escape from the beach, inviting you to explore art, nature, and culture against the stunning backdrop of Haleakalā. Just a 30-minute drive from Kihei, the journey itself is a treat, with panoramic views that unfold as you ascend to 3,500 feet above sea level.
We recently learned from a tour guide that, historically, palm trees from Upcountry were hauled down the volcano to the coast near Turtle Town, right where our condo is! Ancient Hawaiians then crafted them into ships for exploration and island defense.
Dennis and Lara’s Insider Tip
Pack a light jacket—temperatures can drop 10-20°F compared to the warm beaches of South Maui.
Local Art in Upcountry
Upcountry Maui is a haven for local artists, providing a unique opportunity to connect with creators and explore galleries that capture the island’s spirit.
Makawao Art:
- Sherri Reeve Art Gallery: Sherri has work ranging from traditional Hawaiian paintings to modern sculptures. Discover limited edition watercolor art, clothing, and home items, or join an interactive art class.
- Maui Hands Art Gallery: Offers unique art that will allow you to take home more than just a souvenir. Each time we visit, we are captured by how each piece embodies the essence of Maui.
Kula Art
- Worcester Glass Works: We enjoy catching this glass blowing family in action at their studio on Lower Kula Road. Call ahead to ensure they’re open and ready to share their craft with you.
- Curtis Wilson Cost Gallery: Visiting this gallery often leads to meeting the artist himself, Curtis. His paintings are detailed and capture the beauty of Haleakalā and Maui. We leave inspired by his work and warmed by Curtis and Jill’s (his wife) hospitality.
Kula Botanical Garden
A short drive from Makawao brings you to the Kula Botanical Garden, a peaceful place filled with native Hawaiian and exotic plants. This 8-acre garden is open from 9 am to 4 pm every day of the week.
Explore winding paths lined with vibrant hibiscus, towering rainbow eucalyptus trees, and delicate orchids, while keeping an eye out for Jackson’s Chameleons. The garden, though small, is perfect for a leisurely 45-minute to hour-long stroll, especially for your kids or grandchildren.
Dennis and Lara’s Pro Tip: Parking is free but limited, so arriving early is recommended.
Our Favorite Sunsets in Upcountry
Makawao's 3rd Friday Town Party
On the third Friday of each month, Baldwin Avenue in Makawao transforms into a vibrant street fair from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Enjoy live music, fire dancers, local crafts, and food trucks in a family-friendly atmosphere. The historic charm of Makawao shines as the street lights up at night.
Insider Tip: Parking can be limited, so arrive early or bring a few dollars for event parking. After enjoying the entertainment, explore local shops and savor a treat from one of the food vendors.
